The curtain will finally rise on Neath's new-look Gwyn Hall early next year.
Work to redevelop the fire-ravaged building has hit another important stage with the removal of the outside scaffolding.
Contractors are now working on the stylish new entrance foyer as well as continuing with major structural features inside.
The Gwyn Hall closed for restoration five years ago. But the following year fire broke out weeks before the overhaul was due to be completed, requiring a second major investment — this time amounting to £7 million.
A Neath Port Talbot Council spokesman said: "The outside scaffolding has now been removed following the completion of the major external structural work.
"This allows the steel frame to be put up on the front of the building, to house the entrance lobby, gallery and coffee shop.
"Work is also progressing on the inside of the multi-purpose arts venue which will incorporate an auditorium theatre, cinema pod, studio, cafe-bistro and interval bar. There will also be facilities for conferences and other corporate events.
"It is expected that the building work will be completed by the end of the year.
"There will then be a period of a few weeks for staff training and a commissioning process for the specialised theatre equipment to allow the official public opening of the Gwyn Hall in the new year."
The Gwyn Hall was built in Orchard Street at a cost of £6,000 in the 1880s.
It was named after Neath dignitary Howell Gwyn, who donated the land.
Over the years, it was used for council meetings, and as a cultural venue before closing for its first restoration in 2006.
Council leader Ali Thomas said: "I think it is worth reminding the public that we were only a couple of weeks away from reopening the Gwyn Hall after a refurbishment programme a few years ago.
"Of course, following the fire we have been negotiating with our insurers and working to secure additional funding.
"All this has been achieved and now we are seeing the rebuild coming to fruition.
"I look forward to the opening of what will be a truly magnificent community facility in the near future."
South Wales Evening Post - Tuesday 13 September, 2011.
